hmh.. I always liked SMB2 the best. And now I find out it's actually a westernized spin-off. Bummer.

Anyway - imo, this is a really good review. The only thing I kind of miss is a few words on the graphics and animation towards the end (where you mention crisp and charming anyway.. "cartoony"? "Round edges"? "Larger characters"?). They did go away from smb1, like you say.. maybe that could be something you come back to towards the end..? Not necessary with some technical rundown - but something that makes you picture the style a bit..